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Journal Star reporter Cas Waigand covers food and restaurant news throughout the Peoria area.
The 2025 Peoria Food & Wine Festival is gearing up for “one unforgettable night” filled with food and drink. Established in 2016, the festival is now in its 10th year.
“What began as a fundraiser for OSF’s Cancer Initiative expanded into a celebration of our region’s incredible culinary scene and has evolved into a special event that brings people together for good food, great wine, and − most importantly − meaningful impact,” an Aug. 22 Facebook post from the festival said.
Here’s what to know about this year’s event:
When is the Peoria Food & Wine Festival?
The event will be held on Thursday, Oct. 9. Doors will open at 5 p.m. for those with VIP tickets. General admission will start at 6:30 p.m.
Where will the event be held?
The 2025 Peoria Food & Wine Festival will be hosted at 1200 E. Kelly Ave., Peoria Heights. The event website describes the location as “The Green Space at Williams Brothers Construction.”
How much do tickets cost?
VIP tickets are $300 per person, while general admission is priced at $150 per person.
Tickets can be purchased online at https://www.peoriafoodandwinefestival.com/.
What restaurants will be at the 2025 Peoria Food & Wine Festival?
More than two dozen food and drink vendors are participating in the 2025 Peoria Food & Wine Festival.
Attendees will find everything from “rustic New American” with The 208 House to “upscale, authentic Mexican cuisine” from Casa Agave.
In a Sept. 23 Facebook post, the festival said it was “fired up to welcome Slow Hand BBQ” back to the event.
“They’re known for doing things the old-school way—oak wood, time, salt, spice, and a whole lot of soul. From smoked meats to juicy drinks and a full bar, Slow Hand serves up flavor with attitude and heart,” the post stated. “Big thanks to their team for bringing the smoke and the support to this year’s event.”
Some of the vendors listed, like Jim’s Bistro, will only be available for VIP visitors.
Along with food, various drink vendors will also make an appearance. This includes Lexington-based brewery Analytical Brewing, which is working to open a Peoria taproom.
Other vendors at the 2025 Peoria Food & Wine Festival include:
Ardor Breads and ProvisionsThe Bar at BLACK BANDBrienzo’s Pizza + BarBrightBird Chicken Sandwich ShopCarle HealthCasa de ArteClink Bar and EventsChopin VodkaCountry Club of PeoriaCyd’s in the ParkDESTIHL BreweryDESTIHL RestaurantEpiphany FarmsFox & FordHearthIntuition Coffee + JuiceLeBakeryMt. Hawley Country ClubOliver’s in the HeightsOSF HealthCareSaffron SocialSLÈ Seasoned Little Eatery
“Don’t miss your chance to sip, sample, and celebrate with the best!” stated an Oct. 1 Facebook post.
What cause will proceeds support?
Proceeds from this year’s event will support the OSF Children’s Hospital of Illinois Maternal/Fetal Medicine Center − which provides care for high-risk pregnancies.
The festival’s Aug. 22 Facebook post described it as “a cause that is very close to our hearts.”
“Every ticket sold brings expertise and care to a mother and baby who need it most,” the post said. “We hope you can join us for a night of incredible food and drinks and know that your support fuels life-saving care for families across our region.”
Who are the sponsors?
There are 35 sponsors listed on the 2025 Peoria Food & Wine Festival’s website. Sponsorships range from $1,000 legacy sponsors to $25,000 presenting sponsors.
This year’s presenting sponsors include Laura & Allen Cullinan, as well as Oberhelman Foundation and Cullinan Properties.
Magnet sponsors − who gave $10,000 − include Mike and Margee Cullinan and Altorfer CAT. Martin Equipment and Rammos Plastic Surgery & Medspa are $7,500 reserve sponsors.
A full list of the event’s sponsors can be found at https://www.peoriafoodandwinefestival.com/.
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